Senior Operations Manager

At Manchester United, we believe that excellence on the pitch starts with excellence off the pitch. Our team thrives in a high-performance environment, united by a shared passion for success. We aim to elevate the standard of performance through collaboration and continuous growth, creating a space where everyone can contribute their best to our common goals.

We work together at our iconic Manchester United offices, enabling connection and innovation as we look ahead to what we can achieve as a global football club. We are excited to bring in passionate people who share our vision and drive for success.

The Purpose:

As the Senior Operations Manager, you will lead day-to-day operational excellence across matchday and non-matchday events. This role is pivotal in delivering world-class hospitality and service experiences at one of the most iconic stadiums in global sport. You will ensure operational efficiency, staff performance, and service excellence in alignment with the club’s brand values and commercial objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the end-to-end delivery of catering and service operations across all stadium events, ensuring a seamless and high-quality guest experience
• Work in collaboration with the Executive Ched to review, feedback and improve the culinary guest experience
• Oversee the drinks portfolio and profitability for Match Day and non-Match Day events
• Ensure full compliance with health & safety, food safety, and licensing regulations across all operational areas
• Lead operational planning for high-profile fixtures and events, including Premier League matches, European competitions, and third-party bookings
• Collaborate closely with the Senior Hospitality & Events Planning Manager to ensure integrated, efficient operations across departments
• Manage, develop, and inspire a diverse team of operational managers, supervisors, and matchday personnel
• Monitor team performance, identify training needs, and support the development of staff through structured plans
• Foster a high-performance culture with a strong emphasis on customer service excellence and continuous improvement
• Support the delivery of budgetary and cost control targets for matchday and non-matchday operations
• Drive sales and profit maximisation across all catering services and events
• Partner with the Commercial Manager to identify and execute opportunities for increased profitability within the stadium
• Contribute to accurate forecasting and P&L reporting for all catering operations
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key internal stakeholders, including Sales, Events, and Security teams
• Manage relationships with external contractors and partners to ensure contract compliance and delivery of agreed service standards
• Act as a primary point of contact for client escalations and VIP service coordination
• Support the Head of Department in the delivery of strategic projects and continuous service innovation
• Leverage data insights, guest feedback, and post-event reviews to identify and implement service improvements
• Contribute to shaping the long-term vision and standards for hospitality and catering at Manchester United

Skills & Experiences:

Essential: 

• Standards & sales driven
• Proven experience in high-volume hospitality or multi-site operations management
• Strong team leadership experience in a complex, customer-facing environment.
• Excellent understanding of food service operations, service delivery models, and guest experience standards.
• Financial and commercial awareness, including experience managing budgets and supplier contracts.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• A strong understanding and an ambassador for food safety, health & safety & fire safety.
• Knowledge of EPOS, Stock Control and workforce planning systems.

Desirable: 

• Experience within a stadium, arena, or large-scale event venue.
• Fine dining experience

What We Offer:
At Manchester United, we recognise that our people are at the heart of our success. That’s why we offer a range of rewards designed to support your professional and personal well-being:

• Annual incentive scheme
• Wellness Support with access to mental health resources, digital health checks, and & nutritionists through Aviva Digicare+ Workplace
• Exclusive Discounts through our United Rewards platform, giving you access to exclusive deals from the club and partners
• Gym Facilities in our onsite locations and opportunities for regular social events and team-building activities
• Enhanced family Leave Benefits and an opportunity to purchase additional holiday days
• Enhanced Career Development with access to professional learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning, and internal training programs
• A Supportive Work Environment that values diversity, equity and inclusion, and individual growth

Our Commitment to You:
At Manchester United, we believe that a diverse and inclusive environment makes us stronger. We are committed to building a team where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. Diversity, equity and inclusion are at the core of our recruitment strategy, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Ready to Join Us?
If this sounds like the perfect role for you, please submit your application by Thursday 10th July 2025

Manchester United is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults, and as part of this commitment, all candidates will undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service check and reference checks.

If you need any adjustments to help you perform at your best during the recruitment process, please feel free to contact us, and we will be happy to discuss them with you.
 
It is unlawful to employ a person in a UK-based job who does not have permission to live and work in the UK. You should make yourself aware of how immigration laws apply to you before applying for any of our roles.